Kangaroo Island lies off the coast of South Australia and is one of Australia's best islands for wildlife: sea lions on the beach, fur seals under rock arches, kangaroos and koalas. Here you'll find all the checked spots from our map with tips.
The only ferry runs from Cape Jervis, about two hours south of Adelaide, to Penneshaw in about 45 minutes. With a car the crossing is expensive — book early. The island is big, and without a car or a tour you'll hardly reach the sights. Allow at least two days.
The island can be visited all year. Swimming is most pleasant from December to March; winter is cool and windy. You see the wildlife all year.
A small campground on a bay on the north coast, quiet and close to nature.
A long white beach on the south coast. On the open beach there are strong currents — near the river mouth it's calmer. Swimming from December to March.
Wind-sculpted granite boulders on a dome above the sea in Flinders Chase National Park, covered in orange lichen. Most beautiful at sunset. Park pass required; don't go too close to the edge above the sea.
A rock arch at the south-western tip of the island, with fur seals lying on the rocks below. A boardwalk leads to the arch. Most beautiful in the late afternoon.
A colony of Australian sea lions on the beach — one of the few places where you get this close to them. Beach access only with a guided tour; entry fee. Best in the morning.
Where the ferry from Cape Jervis arrives, with a café, shop and pub. In the evening, little penguins sometimes come ashore nearby.
The only ferry connection from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw, about 45 minutes. Book early with a car; spaces are limited.
The island's main town with a supermarket and petrol station. Fill up before trips to the west — there are hardly any supplies there.
On the SeaLink ferry from Cape Jervis in about 45 minutes; with a car, book early.
At least two, better three days — the island is big.
At Seal Bay on the south coast; beach access is only possible on a guided tour.
All spots on the Kangaroo Island map. Nearby: Adelaide.
Updated September 2026. Checked against official sources and operator websites. Prices, opening hours and seasons change — check before you go.